Demonstrators accuse Islamabad of using force to suppress growing public anger
More than 30 people have been killed and dozens injured after Pakistani security forces launched a violent crackdown on protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), as unrest intensified across the region amid local body elections.
Authorities have also suspended internet services across parts of the region in an apparent attempt to curb the flow of information as demonstrations continue to spread.
Protest movement turns deadly
The protests, led by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), escalated after demonstrators marched from Rawalakot towards Muzaffarabad, demanding action over rising prices, political discrimination, alleged administrative neglect and human rights abuses.
According to government sources, Pakistani security personnel used lethal force against protesters during the march, leaving more than 30 civilians dead and over 33 others injured.
Several videos circulating on social media purportedly show security forces firing on civilians as protesters scramble for safety, although these videos have not been independently verified.
Internet suspended across the region
As tensions mounted, authorities imposed internet restrictions across several parts of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, limiting communication amid the escalating violence.
The shutdown came as demonstrations spread to multiple towns, with protesters accusing Islamabad of suppressing dissent through force instead of addressing longstanding grievances.
Long-standing resentment
Pakistan-occupied Kashmir has witnessed weeks of unrest over allegations of economic hardship, rising living costs, poor governance and political marginalisation.
The ongoing protests have also highlighted accusations of human rights violations and demands for greater accountability from Pakistani authorities.
India reiterates its stand
Reacting to developments in the region, India on Tuesday described the local body elections in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as an attempt by Islamabad to camouflage its illegal occupation and divert attention from what it called grave human rights violations in the territory.
New Delhi has consistently maintained that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir remains an integral part of India and has repeatedly accused Pakistan of denying democratic rights to people living in the illegally occupied region.
The situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir remains tense, with security forces maintaining a heavy presence amid fears of further violence.
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